Persea americana 'Mexicola Grande' (Avocado)

Persea americana, the avocado, is an evergreen fruit tree native to southern Mexico and Central America, cultivated for thousands of years and now grown throughout tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Belonging to the laurel family, it develops into a medium to large tree with a dense canopy of glossy green leaves, reaching 20 to 60 feet depending on climate and rootstock, and remaining productive for decades.
Fruits vary widely in size, shape, skin texture, and color - from smooth green to rough dark-purple - depending on the cultivar. The flesh is rich in healthy oils and prized for its smooth buttery texture. The species is also notable for its unusual flowering biology, with flowers opening in two phases that promote cross-pollination between complementary types.
Cultivars derived from Mexican, Guatemalan, and West Indian genetic backgrounds show considerable variation in fruit quality, harvest season, and cold tolerance. The hardiest Mexican-type selections may survive temperatures near 20F when mature, while many West Indian types sustain damage below 30F. Avocado grows best in full sun with well-drained soil and regular moisture; it is sensitive to prolonged waterlogging. Generally suited to USDA Zones 9b-11. See more about avocado:
Avocado varieties chart.
Avocado variety guide: Snack or Guacamole?
Growing avocadoes in Florida
The Magic of the Avocado

Persea americana (Avocado) 'Mexicola Grande' is a cold-hardy avocado cultivar derived from the classic 'Mexicola' and selected for its larger fruit size and improved productivity. Belonging primarily to the Mexican race of avocado, it is valued for its exceptional tolerance of cool temperatures and its ability to produce high-quality fruit in regions where many other avocados struggle. The tree is vigorous, evergreen, and develops an attractive canopy of glossy green leaves that release a distinctive anise-like fragrance when crushed. Fruits are oval to pear-shaped with thin, smooth, purple-black skin that remains edible when ripe. The flesh is pale yellow-green, creamy, and rich, with a pleasant nutty flavor and high oil content. Fruits typically mature from late summer through fall, depending on climate.

This cultivar performs best in full sun and well-drained soil with regular moisture during establishment. Mature trees are relatively drought tolerant and benefit from protection from prolonged waterlogging. Suitable for USDA zones 8b to 11, 'Mexicola Grande' is considered one of the most cold-hardy avocado cultivars and has been reported to withstand brief temperature drops to approximately 17-18 F when fully established. The tree produces Type A flowers and may yield more heavily when grown near a compatible Type B pollinator. Combining reliable fruit production, excellent flavor, and outstanding cold tolerance, 'Mexicola Grande' remains one of the most popular avocado cultivars for gardeners in marginal avocado-growing climates.